Genre Research of Coming-of-Age

 Films within the coming of age genre are ‘emotionally driven’ Whether that is depressed, happy, angry –emotions of the characters are constantly present and remain the films focus This is because the process known as ‘coming of age’ is a personal, psychological and moral growth This growth is only achieved by experiencing different emotions. It is therefore the films job to make these emotions the focal point ; along with the actors performance, specific camera angles and movements are chosen to achieve this. Close ups in most films are used to identify important characters and to show a persons emotions They are especially important in this genre as coming-of-age (personal growth) is seen through the emotions a person is feeling These close ups then enable the audience to see exactly what the character is feeling and/or to see how they are developing and changing. This establishes who the main character(s) are and in some cases, creates an early emotional connection with them Often when there are big groups within a scene, cut away is used. This is where the scene cuts between the master slide and close ups of different people or important objects within the scene. Knowing the emotions and emotional responses of characters is important. Two shot of the two main characters, at the point where a relationship between the two characters is suggested towards intimacy and can also be used to demonstrate ‘bad’ relationships.

There are many typical scenarios that are covered in coming of age dramas. These scenarios are experiences that the characters have or create, where frequently it involves them doing something experimental. Teenagers are intrigued by the idea of trying new things and these new experiences are a vital part of ‘coming of age’. Coming of age films then place a lot of emphasis on scenes that involve the characters experimenting or trying new things. Weather it be the characters attending parties for the first time, partying in a new environment, experiencing new relationships or taking drugs and alcohol, the films use some specific camera angles and movements to demonstrate what is going on and to relay the feelings of the characters, to the audience. They are also sometimes used to help the audience ‘feel and experience’ what the characters are ‘experiencing’. Some added editing effects are also used to help emphasize these experiences and to give a clear understanding of what is going on.

Sound The soundtrack to a coming of age film is generically an indie/pop soundtrack that is catchy and will get stuck in your head. Within this film genre there are many films that include non-diegetic voiceovers from the main protagonist, for example Clueless. School bells and sounds , such as talking within hallways and school announcements can also be stereotypical sounds heard within coming of age films. 

A very popular setting within coming of age films is high schools. Teenagers spend most of their time at school and they are a key character in the coming of age genre so the high school location is expected. Another key setting is the teenager’s bedroom, this is another stereotypical place where teens spend most of their time. Some more examples of generic locations are: transportation such as cars, a family home, cafes, football games and shopping centers. A classic example of theme used in coming of age films is young love. Many coming of age films include a main protagonist and a love interest, and the main theme will be their love story. Another typical theme would be parties, alcohol and drugs, parties are usually the place where things go wrong in the film and something has to be resolved. Teen issues are a theme too, such as mental disorders, hormonal issues, sexuality and exams.

The colors of a coming of age film, are normally bright, bold and interesting. They can be the complete opposite to a horror film in which the colors are very dark and dull. It is usually daytime so coming of age films seem light-hearted and mostly cheerful. ‘Freaky Friday’ is a bright, typical coming of age film.

Movies to watch: "Perks of Being a Wallflower", "Pretty in Pink", and "The Breakfast Club".

I Love coming of age movies as it shows the struggle of the character and how they grow up, even if its just a glimpse. The only thing I could wish would be better is the pacing of the movie for some.